Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where history dances with pink tulle and ballet shoes are our constant companions. This month, I'm taking you on a journey back to the vibrant, swirling world of 3rd March 1882, a date brimming with ballet brilliance.
I’ve had my heart set on this trip for ages, you see. I've been wanting to share my experiences of ballet back in the Victorian era. Not only was the fashion fabulous (I am thinking copious amounts of frills and lace, darlings!), but ballet itself was in the midst of some thrilling transformations. So, grab your pinkest tutu, let's hop onto Magic Meg's back, and head back in time!
Meg, my darling pink shire horse with a golden mane and hooves, has a knack for knowing where to find those special historical moments. She whinnied eagerly as we set off from the Derbyshire countryside, her hooves carrying us across centuries in the blink of an eye.
We arrived in the heart of London, buzzing with excitement for the opening night of "La Fille mal gardée". This classic ballet, bursting with its rustic charm and whimsical storytelling, was being revived at the Covent Garden Royal Opera House. I slipped into the plush red velvet seats, already dreaming of my own pink tutu waltzing on that stage.
I couldn't resist a trip to the famous milliners on Bond Street for some early 19th century fashion inspiration. A whirlwind of lace, ribbons, and feather boas had me absolutely smitten. I just couldn't resist snapping up a little something for my ballet wardrobe back in Derbyshire – a silk bonnet in a vibrant shade of magenta!
The fashion, however, wasn't just on the stage, or on the streets! Back in the era of Victorian elegance, the ballerina herself had a unique fashion sense that went hand-in-hand with her performance. Think exquisite tutus crafted with delicate embroidery, meticulously designed silk shoes with beautiful pointed toes, and shimmering, intricate costumes, perfect for capturing the romantic, delicate movements of ballet.
Imagine it! Each costume was a miniature piece of art, with its own special embellishments and patterns. My little ballerina heart nearly burst! And imagine my delight when I spied an advert for Mme. Celeste, a dancer performing a new version of the popular "Giselle." How exciting to see the way the world was re-interpreting and refreshing this beloved classic.
I could imagine the awe of the London crowds, their gasps as Celeste leapt across the stage, her movements so graceful, so captivating. She, like all these ballet pioneers, played a part in the rich, unfolding history of this art form.
By now, I had filled my backpack with notes on the costumes, fashion, and ballets of the day. Even just imagining this era of balletic refinement and artistry was enough to make me want to run back to my studio, my pink tutu already swaying in anticipation.
Back in my own time, I couldn't help but reflect on this fascinating period of ballet history. The Victorian era wasn't just about long, sweeping dresses, you see! It was a time of experimentation and growth in the world of dance. These pioneering ballerinas, like Celeste, set the stage for the wonderful ballet performances we can see today, each generation pushing the boundaries of artistry and athleticism.
This journey, like all of them, has fuelled my love for ballet. It's inspired me to share the story of this magnificent art form, to bring a little magic of pink tutus and ballet to everyone I meet.
Stay tuned, my loves! Who knows where Magic Meg will take us next month?
With sparkling wishes, Emma xx
